United Methodist Foundation of West Ohio

10/09/2026

A lot of folks are going to need help. Please do what you can and keep everyone in your prayers. May God provide every need.

The first hurricane of the 2026 Atlantic season, Isaias, is expected to impact the Gulf Coast this weekend. Currently a Category 3 storm, Isaias is expected to rapidly intensify before landfall, bringing hurricane-force winds, heavy rainfall, and life-threatening storm surge to parts of Mississippi, Alabama, and the western Florida Panhandle.

As communities brace for impact, here's how you can take action:
🚨 Prepare: For those in the path, listen to shelter-in-place guidelines and evacuation notices from local officials.
🛐 Pray: Join us in prayer for the communities that may be impacted by this storm and for the first responders who will respond to their needs.
📲 Share: Help get the word out about the dangerous potential of this storm and encourage others to pray.
👐 Give: A donation to UMCOR supports our disaster response efforts, including preparedness, across the U.S.: bit.ly/umcorusdr

As the Alabama-West Florida Conference UMC and The Mississippi United Methodist Conference mobilize and coordinate response efforts, UMCOR stands ready to support their relief and recovery work for the long haul.

Tap the link in the comments to read a recent update on Alabama-West Florida's preparation.

10/09/2026

"Jesus spoke to them, 'Be encouraged! It’s me. Don’t be afraid.'
Peter replied, 'Lord, if it’s you, order me to come to you on the water.'
And Jesus said, 'Come.'
Then Peter got out of the boat and was walking on the water toward Jesus.
But when Peter saw the strong wind, he became frightened. As he began to sink, he shouted, 'Lord, rescue me!'" (Matthew 14:27-30, CEB)

Jesus, the ultimate source of peace, meets us in the midst of life's storms. He offers encouragement, calls us by name, and invites us to trust him even when the waves feel overwhelming.

Peter had courage to step out of the boat.

Whatever storms you may find yourself facing today or in the future, may you have the courage, like Peter, to call out to Jesus. And may you also have the faith to step out of the boat and move toward the One who brings peace, even when the winds are strong and the path ahead is uncertain.

What storm, fear, or distraction is keeping you from stepping toward the One who is calling, "Come"?

10/09/2026

Hello Saints! Check out what our friends at Shawnee UMC have going on :)

10/08/2026

Next up on our Speaker Spotlights, we have the amazing, Jodi Bopp! Known as a trusted mentor and leader in the nonprofit world, Jodi has helped to raise millions of dollars for many nonprofits. Jodi will be teaming up with Kari Roll to leverage their expertise in the nonprofit sector through two fundraising-focused sessions at the Summit. Don’t miss the opportunity to hear from two amazing experts in the field!

To register, please use the QR code or click here: https://www.westohioumc.org/civicrm/event/info?reset=1&id=2491&fbclid=IwY2xjawUiVMhleHRuA2FlbQIxMABwZG9mAWJyaWQRMU1heVVzbUliazhwaWc1dVRzcnRjBmFwcF9pZBAyMjIwMzkxNzg4MjAwODkyAAEeOY3QkLOIx-26pL0TnYLM_Wkd-87DqLvgDcEru29usJtbC_r-urMqTRKkKe0_aem_5U5DWppvGoxryw53cx3h_g

10/05/2026

Speaker Spotlights for our upcoming Nonprofit Partner Summit continue with the ever-impressive, Kari Roll! Kari will be leveraging her 20+ year career in nonprofits into 2 sessions at the Summit, both centered around fundraising. She will be joined by another pillar in the nonprofit community, Jodi Bopp. You won't want to miss their sessions!

Don't wait and register now! Use the QR code or click here: https://www.westohioumc.org/civicrm/event/register?reset=1&id=2491

10/01/2026

We hope to see you there! Mark your calendars now for next year's Generosity Summit!

10/01/2026

Next up on our Speaker Spotlights, we have the incredible, Mike Premo! We are thrilled to welcome Mike back to the Summit after being on our inaugural speakers. As a nonprofit leader in community development, Mike’s session on representational leadership is one you don’t want to miss.

Don’t wait and register now to receive the early bird discount! Use the QR code or click here: https://www.westohioumc.org/civicrm/event/info?reset=1&id=2491

09/28/2026

Next up on our Speaker Spotlights, we have the fantastic Sam Rodriguez! He’s an expert when it comes to navigating change, strengthening partnerships, and building healthy, sustainable futures. We are excited to have Sam return as a speaker, after joining us for our inaugural Summit back in 2021. Sam will be joined by his wife, Terri Rodriguez, where they will be digging into how to navigate appropriate faith sharing in the nonprofit space. This interactive, engaging session, is not one to miss!

To register, please use the QR code or click here: https://www.westohioumc.org/civicrm/event/info?reset=1&id=2491&fbclid=IwY2xjawUiVMhleHRuA2FlbQIxMABwZG9mAWJyaWQRMU1heVVzbUliazhwaWc1dVRzcnRjBmFwcF9pZBAyMjIwMzkxNzg4MjAwODkyAAEeOY3QkLOIx-26pL0TnYLM_Wkd-87DqLvgDcEru29usJtbC_r-urMqTRKkKe0_aem_5U5DWppvGoxryw53cx3h_g

09/25/2026

Yesterday our executive Director Susan O'Donnell Black had the privilege of presenting our legacy giving program to a wonderful group of seniors at Summit Station UMC in Pataskala as part of their monthly gatherings. One thing is for sure: ice cream cones make everyone a kid again! 🍦😋

09/25/2026

Did you know the Foundation has 3 grants available for Clergy Development? If you are a WOC provisional or ordained clergy person, or an LLP, make sure you check out the article below to learn more! Grant applications are open through Oct. 15th!

Earlier this year, the United Methodist Foundation of West Ohio launched a new grant program that included a spring grant cycle that focused on children, youth, and young adults; and an upcoming fall grant cycle focused on clergy development. On September 1, the fall grant cycle opens offering three...